Syllabus
Unit 1
Advanced theories of counselling
Existential Counselling, Gestalt Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Systemic and Family Counselling Theories, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Transactional Analysis, Trauma-informed care, multi-cultural counselling, Integrative and Eclectic approaches. Use visual mind-mapping tools (e.g., Miro or MindMeister) to compare theoretical frameworks and intervention techniques. Short video lectures and online counselling demonstrations (from APA PsycTherapy or YouTube educational sources) will be used for applied learning.
Unit 2
Counselling special populations
Child and Adolescent; Geriatric; Marginalised Populations – LGBTQ and minority communities; Vulnerable sections, Schools and HEI. Community, Industry, Legal and judiciary setting, Forensics, Hospitals, De-addiction centres, Special-school settings. Use case simulations available on platforms like “TherapyByPro” or “Therapist Aid” to understand age- and culture-specific adaptations in counselling. Basic use of Canva or PowerPoint for developing psychoeducational handouts and awareness infographics for clients from special populations.
Unit 3
Group counselling
Group Counselling – Definition, nature and characteristics; stages of group counselling process; theories; covering types of groups, stages of group development, roles of the counsellor, techniques for facilitating effective group interactions and promoting personal growth. Simulate group counselling sessions using Zoom or Google Meet breakout rooms to practise facilitator roles and process observation. Collaborative documentation of group reflections will be done using Google Docs or Padlet. Use of AI transcription tools (Otter.ai or Fireflies.ai) to review and analyse group process communication patterns.
Unit 4
Counsellor Self-Care and Emerging Trends
Supervision in Counselling, Burnout prevention, Record maintenance and handling ethical issues. Emerging Trends – Telecounselling and AI interventions. Explore beginner-friendly telehealth platforms (e.g., Doxy.me demo or OpenCounseling resources) to understand the structure of online sessions. Self-care tracking will be facilitated using mobile well-being apps (such as Mindfulness Coach or Moodfit) with reflective journaling on digital progress.
ChatGPT-style AI interfaces for case formulation exercises under faculty guidance, emphasising ethical limitations of AI-assisted practice.
Unit 5
Case Conceptualisation, Interpretation and Presentation
Students will present a counselling case study report. Understanding the internal dynamics of the presenting problem, the systematisation and organisation of the problem, and the assessment and interpretation of the client’s presenting problem. Suggestion of suitable intervention.
Text Books / References
Textbooks
- Jacobs, E. E., Masson, R. L., & Harvill, R. L. (2009). Group counselling: Strategies and skills. Brooks/Cole.
- Corey, M. S., & Corey, G. (2002). Groups: Process and practice (6th ed.). Brooks/Cole.
- Corey, G., Schneider Corey, M., & Callanan, P. (2018). Issues and ethics in the helping professions (10th ed.). Cengage Learning.
- Capuzzi, D., & Stauffer, M. D. (2016). Counseling and psychotherapy: Theories and interventions (6th ed.). American Counseling Association.
- Ivey, A. E., & D’Andrea, M. (2019). Theories of counseling and psychotherapy: A multicultural perspective (7th ed.). SAGE Publications.
Suggested Readings
- Jack, D. C., & Dill, D. (1992). The silencing the self-scale: Schemas of intimacy associated with depression in women. Psychology of Women Quarterly, 16(1), 97–106. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1471-6402.1992.tb00242.x
- Seligman, M. E. P. (1975). Helplessness: On depression, development, and death. W. H. Freeman.
- Davis, M. H. (1983). Measuring individual differences in empathy: Evidence for a multidimensional approach. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 44(1), 113–126. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.44.1.113
Introduction
Counselling Psychology II is a comprehensive course designed to advance students proficiency in counselling practice by building on the foundational concepts covered in Counselling Psychology I. The curriculum centres on the mastery of advanced therapeutic techniques and the practical application of multiple counselling models, including cognitive-behavioural, humanistic, and psychodynamic approaches. Through an in-depth exploration of these frameworks, students gain the skills necessary to tailor interventions to diverse client needs.The course emphasises the management of complex psychological issues, such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. Students are trained to address these challenges with sensitivity, employing evidence-based strategies that enhance therapeutic outcomes. A significant component of the programme involves developing expertise in psychological assessment and treatment planning, equipping learners to design and implement structured interventions for individual clients.The client-centred approach forms the backbone of the course, fostering an environment where empathy, respect, and active listening are paramount. Learners are encouraged to adopt a holistic perspective, prioritising the unique circumstances and strengths of each client to facilitate meaningful change. Furthermore, the syllabus integrates the importance of cultural competence, preparing students to navigate the complexities of counselling in multicultural contexts. This focus ensures that future practitioners are adept at recognising and respecting cultural diversity, thereby delivering ethical and effective counselling services.By the conclusion of Counselling Psychology II, students will demonstrate advanced knowledge of therapeutic approaches and techniques, apply targeted interventions for a variety of psychological concerns, and exhibit proficiency in assessment and treatment planning. They will be prepared to conduct professional counselling sessions, contribute positively to client well-being, and uphold the highest standards of cultural sensitivity within their practice.
